What is a soil percolation test?

A soil percolation test is designed specifically to evaluate how quickly water moves through soil. This is essential when determining the suitability of a site for septic systems, as it provides data on the absorption capacity of the soil. The test involves digging a test hole, filling it with water, and measuring the rate at which the water level decreases over time. This information helps engineers and environmental health professionals design effective waste management systems by ensuring that sewage or treated water will be adequately absorbed into the ground without causing surface runoff or contamination.

While other options pertain to soil and water characteristics, they do not capture the primary purpose of a percolation test, which is to measure the infiltration rate of water in soil. Measurements of water quality and soil nutrient levels, for instance, assess different parameters that do not relate directly to the soil's percolation capacity or its ability to handle wastewater. Similarly, assessing soil hardness focuses on the physical properties of the soil rather than its permeability and drainage capabilities.